Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, has been given the Hindu name ‘Kamala’ ahead of her participation in the Maha Kumbh 2025, set to begin in Prayagraj on January 13. The billionaire philanthropist, known for her interest in spirituality and humanitarian work, is currently in Varanasi and will join the grand Hindu festival to immerse herself in traditional rituals under the guidance of her guru, Swami Kailashananda.
Swami Kailashananda, the ‘Mahamandaleshwar’ of the Niranjani Akhara, confirmed her new name and her spiritual journey. Speaking to Hindustan Times, he said, “Laurene has a deep interest in Sanatan Dharma and treats me like a father. I also give her the same love as a daughter.” He added that she had been given a new name after receiving her guru’s Gotra, symbolizing her spiritual inclusion. “She is coming to visit her guru here. We have named her Kamala, and she is like a daughter to us. This is the second time she is coming to India… Everyone is welcome in Kumbh,” he told ANI.
Laurene’s visit to India is not her first encounter with the country’s spiritual practices. She previously visited India and has been deeply connected to Sanatan Dharma, as emphasized by her guru. Her upcoming participation in the Maha Kumbh will include her taking part in the Akhara’s Peshwai ritual and adopting the saffron robes of a sanyasin. She is expected to perform the royal dip, or Shahi Snan, on two key dates – January 14 (Makar Sankranti) and January 29 (Mauni Amavasya).
The Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, is a significant event in Hindu culture and is considered the largest human gathering in the world. This year’s event, running from January 13 to February 26, is projected to attract around 400 million pilgrims to Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. It is a time for spiritual cleansing, meditation, and devotion, where saints, seers, devotees, and VIPs gather to perform rituals along the sacred rivers.
Laurene’s engagement in the festival will also include observing the ancient tradition of Kalpvas. This practice involves a month-long period of devotion and ascetic living, observed by devotees known as Kalpvasis. It begins on Paush Purnima and concludes on Maghi Purnima, with participants dedicating themselves to prayers, meditation, and rituals by the riverbanks.
Before arriving in Prayagraj, Laurene visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi on Saturday. Accompanied by her guru, she offered prayers at the revered shrine. However, adhering to temple traditions, she was only allowed to view the sacred Shivling from outside, as touching the holy symbol of Lord Shiva is restricted to certain devotees.
Preparations for the Maha Kumbh are nearing completion, with the Uttar Pradesh government sparing no effort to ensure a successful event. State Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh revealed that the budget allocated for the 45-day festival is approximately Rs 7,000 crore. This year’s Kumbh Mela will be the first to incorporate advanced technology, including artificial intelligence and chatbots, to enhance the experience and ensure seamless management of the massive crowds.
Security has been a top priority, with the UP Police implementing a multi-layered system to safeguard the millions of pilgrims expected to converge on Prayagraj. The main bathing rituals, or Shahi Snan, will take place on three auspicious dates: January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). These royal baths are the highlight of the festival, drawing devotees seeking spiritual merit.
Laurene Powell Jobs’ participation in the Maha Kumbh underscores her deep respect for Indian spirituality and traditions. Her spiritual journey reflects the growing global fascination with Hindu practices and the cultural significance of events like the Kumbh Mela. As she takes the name Kamala and dons the saffron attire of a sanyasin, her presence adds an international dimension to the festival, further highlighting its universal appeal.
Swami Kailashananda expressed his joy at welcoming her to the Maha Kumbh, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the festival. “Everyone is welcome in Kumbh,” he reiterated, underscoring the event’s spiritual openness and significance. The seer also mentioned her intent to meditate and participate fully in the rituals during her stay, aligning with the essence of the Maha Kumbh – a convergence of faith, devotion, and humanity.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 promises to be a historic and spiritually enriching event, with millions gathering to seek blessings and participate in the age-old traditions that define Hinduism’s rich cultural heritage.